This year’s elections in Pennsylvania revolve around two major questions: whether Josh Shapiro can maintain his popularity as governor and which party will gain an advantage in the state’s most competitive congressional districts, particularly Districts 1, 7, 8, and 10. The results could influence both Pennsylvania’s political direction and the balance of power in Washington.

On November 3, 2026, Pennsylvania voters will head to the polls to elect a governor, all members of the state’s delegation to the U.S. House of Representatives, and dozens of state legislators. Considered one of the nation’s most competitive battleground states, Pennsylvania is once again at the center of national politics.

The top race: Governor

Incumbent Democratic Governor Josh Shapiro is seeking reelection against Republican State Treasurer Stacy Garrity. The contest is the highest-profile statewide race on the ballot and will have a direct impact on issues such as education, the economy, infrastructure, energy, and the state budget.

Although many analysts consider Shapiro the favorite, the race continues to draw close attention because of Pennsylvania’s strategic importance as a swing state.

The most competitive congressional races

Control of the U.S. House of Representatives could hinge on several Pennsylvania districts. Political observers identify the following as among the state’s most competitive contests:

District 1 (Bucks County and part of Montgomery County)

• Brian Fitzpatrick (Republican, incumbent)
• Bob Harvie (Democrat)

This is one of the most closely watched congressional districts in the country, largely because it encompasses politically divided suburban communities.

District 7 (Lehigh Valley)

• Ryan Mackenzie (Republican)
• Bob Brooks (Democrat)

The Lehigh Valley has become a key electoral battleground and could help determine which party controls the U.S. House.

District 8 (Northeastern Pennsylvania)

• Rob Bresnahan (Republican)
• Paige Cognetti (Democrat)

This race pits two candidates with strong local name recognition against each other and is considered one of the state’s most competitive contests.

District 10 (Harrisburg-York Area)

• Scott Perry (Republican)
• Janelle Stelson (Democrat)

This is likely the highest-profile congressional race in Pennsylvania. Perry is a nationally known conservative figure, while Stelson hopes to flip the district for Democrats.

Issues of interest to Latino voters in the Philadelphia area

For residents of Montgomery, Bucks, and Philadelphia counties, Congressional District 1 deserves special attention. Part of Montgomery County falls within the district, and the outcome could have national implications.

In addition, voters will elect members of the Pennsylvania House and Senate. Those results could affect the balance of power in Harrisburg and shape state policy on key issues for years to come.

This special edition leading up to the midterm elections is made possible through the support of The Lenfest Institute for Journalism’s Every Voice, Every Vote initiative, which helps provide election information so our community can make informed voting decisions.